Tip #1 – Get a Home Security System – preferably with Cameras

Security yard signs, stickers, and visible cameras discourage burglars and they may opt for an easier target in the neighborhood.

Posting a ‘Beware of Dog’ sign scares off thieves and you don’t even need to own a dog.

There are also visual cues like an overflowing mailbox or untrimmed lawn that may suggest that nobody has been home in some time and it’s safe to break in. Get a neighbor to shovel your driveway, if you are going away during the winter.

Although creating privacy with high fences, walls, trees, shrubs, and hedges may make you feel more relaxed, keep in mind that it also gives burglars the opportunity to ply their trade unobserved.

Tip #2 – Don’t post your vacation plans on social media

Of course you want everyone to know that you are going on vacation and post pictures of your travels.

Nowadays, a lot of burglars are quite social media savvy and may be watching for people who will be away.

You might just be putting a giant target on your home because finding out your address is a lot easier than you might think.

Post your travel pictures once you have returned home and take yourself off the target list.

Often times burglaries are not entirely pre-planned and leaving out home equipment like ladders may be aiding thieves to access open windows or attic entrances on a whim.

Keep your windows and doors locked and equipment put away, to ensure there is no easy access point into your home.